A HOPping good time in Auckland

Having rated beers round the world, it’s no secret we enjoy imbibing.  Thus, when we spent a day in Auckland, New Zealand, the prevailing theme of our sight seeing consisted of visiting breweries.

Now, it may sound like we missed a golden chance to explore the city, but in fact, it gave us an opportunity to see a more local side.  At the oldest microbrewery in New Zealand, Shakespeare’s, we chatted with the night bartender who informed us of the exorbitant costs of living in Auckland.  While we relaxed in the library of the old hotel, she reported that it’s nearly impossible for locals to buy homes now.

At Dr Rudi’s brewery, where we sat on the rooftop and watched the moon rise, we observed the after work crowd flirting with each other.

As we brewery hopped our way around the oceanside city, climbing one cramp inducing hill after another, being rewarded with glimpses of the ocean as we reached each summit, we were confronted by the abundant trendiness of Auckland.

Bearded hipsters in tight pants danced to retro songs, and thick spectacled women lunched on open faced sandwiches.  We spent a few hours at a converted warehouse, where former berths now house trendy cafes, serving overpriced (but delicious) food.  Our chosen restaurant was Best Ugly Bagels, a wood fired bagel joint, that rivals anything in New York City.

 Having been deprived of decent bagels in Adelaide, this decadent meal was a welcome indulgence.  Adjacent to the bagel place, was- surprise surprise- a brewery.  Brother’s Brewery showcases craft beers from around the world, but focuses on New Zealand beers.  The shed was decked out with 70s style couches, with the affected style of looking effortlessly casual.

We lounged amongst the young Auckland business crowd out for a liquid Friday lunch.  And who could blame them?  New Zealand produces some of the finest IPA beers in the world.  This is fortunate, as IPAs are our favorite type of beer to consume.

So why does the land of Frodo produce such amazing beer?  Because the climate is perfect for some intensely flavorful, aromatic, fruity hops, which, of course, give flavor to beer.